LASIK reshapes the cornea under a thin flap and can correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism in suitable eyes. This topic covers what recovery involves, which side effects are common and which are not, and what changes over the years that follow.
No lasers are FDA-approved for LASIK in people under 18, and FDA patient guidance does not set a single maximum age. Eligibility depends on prescription stability, corneal measurements, tear film, pupil size, and age-related lens changes.
LASIK is not a temporary correction, but vision can still change over time. Common reasons include myopic regression, presbyopia, cataract, and unrelated eye conditions.
Most LASIK side effects settle within months, but a minority persist. Here is how often dry eye, glare, and flap problems occur, and what the evidence says about vision loss.
LASIK recovery time is short for daily activities but longer for full stability. Here is what to expect on day one, in the first week, and through the first three months.